Friday, April 18, 2008
Want to shape the future of Nova Scotia’s forests?
Concerned about clearcutting? Worried about the forest industry? Want to shape the future of Nova Scotia’s forests?
Public consultations on our forests are starting soon. Voluntary Planning, an arms-length agency of the Nova Scotia government, will be traveling the province to document Nova Scotians’ concerns and values on the future of FORESTS, MINING, PARKS and BIODIVERSITY.
This is the time to speak up about our forests and forest industry. These consultations will help shape the government’s new Natural Resources Strategy. See www.gov.ns.ca/vp and follow the link to Natural Resources to learn about the process. Consultations will take place from May 12th to June 12th throughout Nova Scotia.
What’s at Stake? Our Forest and Forest Economy
Because of heavy cutting and land clearing over many decades, Nova Scotia’s native, unique Acadian Forest is threatened. Our forest is degraded and the forestry industry is struggling. Mills are closing, forestry jobs are declining, the tourism industry is negatively affected and our forest is increasingly vulnerable to climate change.
With progressive forest policy, however, we can promote a naturally diverse forest that provides wildlife habitat, clean water, a place to appreciate nature, and high-quality timber. With sensible management, we can promote a forest industry based on value-added manufacturing, providing diverse and stable employment. With intelligent fore-sight, we can best meet the challenges climate change will bring to our forest.
What to Do? Have your say and help spread the word!
P Participate in the Voluntary Planning consultations and encourage your friends and family to do the same: attend the consultations or submit your thoughts in writing
Ø Visit our website and join the Forest Alert email list for updates: www.novascotiaforests.ca.
Ø Volunteer your time – contact us to find out how: (902) 429-1335 or forests@ecologyaction.ca.
